Jailene Nieves-Mercado

Position: Owner/Therapist

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Background: I am originally from Vieques, Puerto Rico. I grew up in a military family but was primarily raised in Fayetteville, NC. I am bilingual (English/Spanish).

Licensure:

• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#13503)

• Registered Expressive Arts Therapist (#2135)

Education:

• MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University

• BA in Psychology from UNC-Chapel Hill

Clinical Approach: I work from an eclectic and empowerment-based approach with a focus on trauma awareness, identity, authentic expression, humor, and self-compassion. This approach allows me to build an understanding of how my clients function and perceive the world and allows us the flexibility to develop a healing approach that works best for you!

A little bit about you: I love art in all forms. I enjoy crocheting, drawing, writing poetry, painting, and listening to music. I love being at the beach and learning about astrology, tarot, and plants!

Words of Encouragement: What’s meant for you will not pass you by.

Leonardo Bae (Leo Bae)

Position: Office manager extraordinaire

A little bit about you: I enjoy snuggling and/or digging on the couch. I love toys - the squeakier the better! I like to steal my mom’s blankets!

Words of Encouragement: Eat, drink water, play, and sleep.